Photo via BBC Sport

Newcastle boss 'relishing' Scarlets challenge

Newcastle Red Bulls head coach Dan McFarland has expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Challenge Cup clash against the Scarlets, despite his team’s shaky start to the Premiership season. The Red Bulls, who have lost all three league games so far—including a tight defeat to Exeter Chiefs—have still earned four bonus points, hinting at improved competitiveness.

McFarland, with extensive experience in the United Rugby Championship from stints with Connacht, Glasgow Warriors, and Ulster, praised the Scarlets’ attacking style and depth, noting their dangerous backs and newly strengthened forward pack. He also highlighted the Welsh region’s ongoing talent, citing players like Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan as standouts, while acknowledging the challenges posed by the Scarlets’ counter-attacking approach and familiarity with his coaching staff, including former Ulster teammate Dwayne Peel.

The match marks Newcastle’s first action in the Challenge Cup this season, where McFarland aims to push the team beyond last year’s last-16 exit, framing the competition as a key opportunity for growth.

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